The foundation of the SoAR (Some Assembly Required) program will help Grade 8 participants identified with a primary diagnosis of Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD to feel empowered to develop the life skills necessary to succeed academically and vocationally. 

Transitioning is a difficult task in which many students can face unique challenges. Our 1-to-1 sessions are designed to provide targeted support based on the student's needs, aiming to address these challenges head-on.

The program consists of four (4), 45-60 minute sessions with the following session topics: 

Session 1: Empowering Personal and Academic Development: Exploring Our Strengths and Needs Through Executive Functioning Skills and School Subjects.

This session focuses on helping students think deeply about themselves, their strengths, and what they need to grow. Through discussion and activities, students will develop self-awareness and a positive outlook for the future. We will explore different learning styles to help students identify resources that fit their needs. Finally, the session will briefly introduce the important skill of self-advocacy, guiding students in learning how to ask for their needs and building a support network that can assist them along the way. 

Session 2: Equipping Students: Understanding IEPs, Accessing High School Accommodations and Supports, and Navigating Self-Advocacy. 

In this session, students will learn about their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and discover their own strengths, areas of need, and accommodations. They will use this knowledge to build self-advocacy skills. Participants will create a self-advocacy card that highlights their specific supports and goals, enhancing their understanding of their IEP and the resources available to them. The session will also cover how to ask for accommodations, roleplaying activities, and why the IEP process is important, giving students valuable information for their education and personal growth.

Session 3: Understanding Transitions and Building Positive Habits. 

In this session, students will explore the transition from elementary to high school. They will learn about important topics like choosing classes, required courses, and getting involved in extracurricular activities, including volunteer work. Participants will also engage in activities and discussions focused on staying organized and productive. Additionally, this session will provide an array of templates students can use to optimize their success in their classes. 

Session 4: Optimizing Success: Navigating Stress in High School through Expectations and Preparation while Visualizing Successful Futures

This session covers a wide range of topics related to exam expectations and preparation. Students will learn effective stress management techniques, study strategies, relaxation tips for exam day, and the value of post-exam self-reflection, all designed to help them approach their studies with confidence and clarity. Additionally, students will create a vision board to express their dreams, aspirations, and goals for high school. The session concludes with a comprehensive review of key themes and time for questions and reflective discourse. The student(s) takes the workbook home that they used during the duration of the program to serve as a reference guide as they embark on their journey into grade 9.

*Each session is designed to focus on specific areas of growth and development, ensuring that participants receive personalized support. Session plans and topics are subject to change or rearrangement at the discretion of the SOAR facilitator(s) depending on the needs of the student(s)* 

Learning Objectives:

• Understanding LDs/ADHD and learning preferences
• Develop self-advocacy strategies for success (i.e. review (I.E.P.) Individual Education Plan or psychoeducational assessment, self-advocacy card).
• Build executive function skills (i.e. organization, time management, etc.)
• Preparation for school assessments (i.e. test, assignment, and exam prep).
• Successful transitions into secondary school easing anxiety or stress.

How Group Sessions at Schools Work:

• Designed for participants in Grade 8, identified with Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD.
• Customized 4 sessions at your school during the daytime.
• Varying time frame 45-60 minutes per session.
•  Ratio 6 participants to a facilitator.
• Parents can request schools to bring the SOAR program in to their schools, it is ultimately up to the school to invite us to deliver the program
• Fee: $240 per group - 4 sessions